Chernobyl Strike: ‘No Room for Complacency,’ Warns Atomic Energy Watchdog
14 February 2025
Vienna, Austria
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed deep concern following reports of strikes in the vicinity of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the urgent need to maintain safety and security at the site, warning against any actions that could compromise the integrity of the facility.
According to the IAEA, preliminary assessments indicate that the strikes damaged power lines but did not directly hit any nuclear reactors. However, Grossi stressed that the situation remains volatile and requires continued monitoring.
“We urge all parties involved to exercise utmost restraint and to refrain from any actions that could further jeopardize the safety and security of Chernobyl,” Grossi said in a statement. “There is no room for complacency when it comes to the safety of nuclear facilities.”
The Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant is notoriously known for being the site of a catastrophic nuclear disaster in 1986. The release of radioactive material following the explosion and subsequent fire had far-reaching consequences for both Ukraine and neighboring countries.
The IAEA has been closely monitoring the situation at Chernobyl since the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine. In March 2023, the plant was briefly disconnected from the grid, raising concerns about the cooling systems for its spent nuclear fuel.
Grossi’s statement underscores the critical importance of maintaining international cooperation and support for nuclear safety. He called on all countries to work together to ensure that nuclear facilities are protected and that the lessons learned from Chernobyl are never forgotten.
“Nuclear facilities must be kept safe and secure at all times, regardless of the circumstances,” Grossi said. “Safety is paramount, and there can be no room for deviation.”
The IAEA has a number of international conventions and regulations aimed at promoting nuclear safety and security. These include the Convention on Nuclear Safety, which sets out the obligations of countries to ensure the safety of their nuclear facilities.
The IAEA also provides technical assistance and support to countries to help them meet their nuclear safety obligations. This support includes training for nuclear power plant operators, safety reviews, and assistance with the development of emergency response plans.
In light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the IAEA has reiterated its commitment to continue monitoring the situation at Chernobyl and to provide assistance as needed. The agency emphasized that nuclear safety is a global responsibility and that all countries have a role to play in ensuring the safety and security of nuclear facilities.
Strike on Chernobyl: ‘No room for complacency’ says atomic energy watchdog
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